Thomas L. Jennings

1791–1856

What Thomas contributed

Received a patent for a method of cleaning clothing called dry scouring.

The story

Jennings operated a tailoring and clothing-cleaning business in New York. He used income from his invention and business to support abolitionist causes.

Why it matters

He is recognized as the first known Black recipient of a United States patent.

Patent record
U.S. Patent X3,306